La Despedía (or farewell)

One of the most moving events in the Easter Week celebrations in Álora commemorates the moment when Jesus says farewell to his mother.

The ceremony takes place at midday on Good Friday in the Plaza de la Encarnación square, also known as the Plaza Baja de la Despedía. The images of the Dolorosa and Jesús Nazareno enter the square from different sides until they are standing face to face. Here, by means of a special movement of their thrones by their respective bearers, they appear to “greet” each other. At a signal from the Mayordomo or chief custodian, both thrones make a genuflection and with each lowering of the throne they move a little closer to each other. This is repeated several times to fervent cheering from the throng and to the strains of the national anthem.

The festivity has been declared of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia.